Barefoot Arts Meander 2026 — Undone (Michelle Roniak)

Michelle Roniak talks about her debut book, Undone: Healing from Botched Cosmetic Surgery: A Memoir (Melinda Ferguson Books).

At 39, Michelle appeared to have it all: a thriving business, a vibrant social life, and a loving family. But beneath the surface lived an all-consuming obsession with physical perfection. After a boob job at 21, followed by two decades of Botox and fillers, the lure of the surgeon's aesthetic toolbox finally drew her in — but what was meant to be a routine "nip and tuck" and liposuction went horribly wrong.

In the years that followed, Michelle discovered she was living with body dysmorphic disorder. Unable to find a single book, forum or guide for women like her, she decided to write one herself. Undone is her honest, unflinching account of that journey — from body shame and crisis, to a hard-won sense of self-acceptance.

Since the surgery that undid her, Michelle has channelled her recovery into high-impact adventure: in 2023 she swam from Robben Island to Blaauwberg, and in 2025 she completed the Comrades Marathon. She is also the founder of Dear Beloved Body. Undone has been longlisted for the 2026 Sunday Times Literary Awards.

Please note this session touches on body dysmorphia and mental health struggles.